e-Aadhaar is a valid identity proof: UIDAI

In a move to alleviate concerns of stakeholders on the validity of e-Aadhaar and the cut-away portion of the Aadhaar letter, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) clarified that either option is to be considered as a valid proof of identity and address.

The Information Technology Act, 2000 provides for legal recognition of electronic records with digital signatures. Hence e-Aadhaar is to be treated as a valid document in view of the fact that it has been digitally certified.

The e-Aadhaar document is digitally signed using certificate issued by NIC as per the IT Act. Further, all the data printed in e-Aadhaar, is the same data as printed in Aadhaar letter, making e-Aadhaar a valid and secured electronic document, which should be treated at par with a printed Aadhaar letter.

A "Resident Portal" had been launched to enable the Residents download their e-Aadhaar, an electronically generated Aadhaar letter, from the website of UIDAI. In addition, Common Service Centers, set up in states, are also catering to the needs of the residents with regards to download and printing of e-Aadhaar.

UIDAI has also been receiving complaints from residents regarding refusal of acceptance of cut away portion of Aadhaar letter as a valid document. The authority clarified that the cut away portion of Aadhaar letter is as an officially valid document as it contains all the details of Aadhaar letter such as name, address, Aadhaar number, photograph and logo of the Aadhaar project. It also carries a QR code containing the demographic details of the resident.

Now as per clarification, the cut away portion of Aadhaar letter, which is a part of the main letter containing all the verifiable authentic details, is a valid document for all purposes. Therefore, it can be taken as a valid proof of identity and proof of address.